edgewise

[ ej-wahyz ]

adverb

1. with the edge forward; in the direction of the edge.
2. sideways.

Word History and Origins

Origin of edgewise¹

First recorded in 1560–70; edge + -wise

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. get a word in edgewise, to succeed in entering a conversation or expressing one's opinion in spite of competition or opposition:

   There were so many people talking at once that I couldn't get a word in edgewise.

More idioms and phrases containing edgewise

see get a word in edgewise .

Example Sentences

But he did not have good answers, even on those rare occasions when he was allowed to get in a word edgewise.

From Washington Post

There are moments when you almost wish Castillo would stop talking so you can get a word in edgewise.

From Los Angeles Times

The current president barely gets a word in edgewise.

From Seattle Times

Luhrmann is moving so fast, with such mannered, overbearing self-consciousness, that Butler can barely get a hip swivel in edgewise, let alone a fully realized characterization.

From Washington Post

My friend has a 16-year-old child who is shy, quiet and smart, but who can't get a word in edgewise when we three are together.

From Washington Post